The past few years has seen beautiful classic Camper & Nicholson yacht MARALA sympathetically restored by her current custodians. The first phase of the refurbishment took place in the historical yacht mecca of Malta, while the final stages have been undertaken at the UK superyacht specialist Pendennis Shipyard.
Renowned London interior design studio Muza Lab was chosen by the owners to create an exquisite interior reminiscent of her original 1930s Art Deco era. Her upgraded features include classic wood panelling, silk wall coverings, parquet, brass finishings, crystal chandeliers and authentic furniture.
Her fascinating 88-year history began when she was commissioned by engineering tycoon Montague Stanley Napier from his temporary convalescence in Cannes. During her construction Napier’s health was further failing and he died the month before she was completed in February 1931. She was therefore launched simply as number 388, the only Camper & Nicholson yacht ever to be launched without a name.
Her next owner Charles Fairey christened her Evadne, after Poseidon’s daughter and she spent the pre-war years hosting the likes of Prince Olaf of Norway and Amelia Earhart among others. Fairey loaned Evadne to the war effort as was common with super yachts of the time and as HMS Evadne, she saw active service in the Straights of Gibraltar.
The post war years saw her regularly changing hands and name, until she was bought in 1962 and christened MARALA (combining the names of his daughters Marina and Alexandra) by Robert de Balkany. He was well known for bringing the American ‘shopping mall’ concept to Europe by building retail developments in France. He became her most tenured custodian with ownership spanning over 53 years and cruised regularly from the port of Piraeus in Greece. Notable guests during this period included Frank Sinatra, King Juan Carlos of Spain and Salvador Dali.
Bought by her current owner in 2016, her comprehensive programme of works started with painstaking examination of the original plans and in-depth research at the National Maritime Museum archives. As well as strengthening work to her hull and other technical upgrades, the team have lavished her with authentic art deco features and what the design team call ‘Gatsby-esque glamour’.
MARALA can accommodate up to 12 guests in six unparalled staterooms, the master including a private lounge area and opulent ensuite, a full beam VIP, three double and one twin suite.
You can join the truly unique grand yacht MARALA as she cruises around the Mediterranean from Summer 2023.